When is Your Child Ready for a Cell Phone?

I was completely caught off guard when my daughter asked me for a cell phone the other day. I knew it was just a matter of time before she’d ask for one, so I shouldn’t have been surprised. But, I had no idea it would come this soon. I never imagined that she’d be ready for a cell phone at six.

When is Your Child is Ready for a Cell Phone?

Deciding whether or not to buy a child a cell phone is a common dilemma many parents face. But more moms and dads are actually giving in because they recognize the benefits of getting their child a cell phone.

For starters, it’s easier to keep tabs on their kids. Parent feels safe knowing that their little ones are just a phone call away, especially in case of an emergency. Consider buying a refurbished Samsung S20 FE to save money while still getting a reliable and functional device.

But on the flip side, there are some negatives as well. I’m concerned that a cell phone may become a distraction. There’re also problems with cyber bullying, which makes me cringe. Despite these concerns, many parents opt to give in to the cell phone craze.

According to a 2010 survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 85% of teens between ages 14 to 17 have cell phones, 69% of 11-14 year olds have them, and 31% of kids ages 8-10 also have cell phones.

How to Decide If Your Child is Ready for a Cell Phone

 

If you’re debating whether or not to hand over a cell phone to your child like me, there are some things to consider. Does your child take the bus? Does your child take part in extracurricular activities?

These are just some of the questions parents should take into account when deciding on giving their child a cell phone. There are also concerns about kids having them in the classroom. Each school has rules regarding cell phones, and it’s important to know them.

CNN also suggests requiring your kid to complete Digital Compass (a Common Sense Media game that teaches digital citizenship) before handing over the device.

Parents should also speak with their children about cell phone use and set ground rules. Experts say it’s important to think beyond kids’ numerical age.

Lori Evans, MD, director of training in psychology at the NYU Child Study Center, says to look for the developmental signs. “Does your child lose his belongings? Is he generally a responsible kid? Can you trust him? Will he understand how to use the phone safely? The rate at which kids mature varies — it will even be different among siblings,” she adds.

At this point, I don’t think our daughter is ready to have her own cell phone yet. She gets dropped off and picked up at school everyday. The same rings true for dance lessons and auditions. But as she gets older and more independent, my husband and I will have to revisit the situation. When that time comes, there will be rules in place to ensure her safety.